Everyone has suffered from bad breath at some point in their lives. You may notice it when you wake up in the morning or shortly after eating something pungent. Although it can be quite embarrassing, it’s a common condition and there are several ways to prevent it. Before you go scouring the internet for solutions, stop right there because we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn six ways you can stop bad breath in its tracks.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
One of the best ways to keep your breath smelling fresh is by keeping your mouth clean with good oral hygiene. At-home dental care practices like brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash are essential for a healthy smile. If you neglect to follow these steps, it could result in bad breath.
Clean Your Tongue
Don’t forget to clean your tongue as well! This step is often overlooked, but it’s a crucial part of your oral hygiene routine. Plaque, bacteria, and food particles can easily get trapped in the grooves and crevices on your tongue. If left there, they can contribute to bad breath. You can keep your tongue clean by brushing it gently or using a tongue scraper.
Rinse with an Antiseptic Mouthwash
A quick rinse with some antiseptic mouthwash can help your breath smell minty fresh! However, if you have an underlying condition that’s causing bad breath, the mouthwash will only mask the odor – not cure it. It can even make the smell worse by irritating the oral tissue. Instead, consider rinsing your mouth with black or green tea. Studies show it can suppress the growth of bacteria that cause a foul odor.
Avoid Smoking or Using Tobacco Products
Not only can these poor habits have detrimental effects on your overall health, but they can contribute to bad breath. Smoking and using tobacco products can leave an unpleasant smell that lingers even after brushing your teeth. If you ever need a reason to quit, do it for the sake of your breath!
Drink Plenty of Water
Water is truly one of the best drinks for your mouth and body. It can quench your thirst and help you avoid a dry mouth. Additionally, staying hydrated will keep the foul mouth odor under control by washing away food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath.
Chew on Sugar-Free Gum
Believe it or not, saliva plays a crucial role in your oral health. The natural substance helps wash away food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath. Chewing on sugar-free gum will not only stimulate the flow of saliva, but it can leave your breath smelling minty-fresh!
Even though bad breath is common, it doesn’t make it any less embarrassing. Luckily, following the tips outlined above can keep your mouth smelling fresh and looking its very best!
About the Author
Dr. Tammy Ton offers personalized, high-quality, exceptional dental care to patients of all ages. After receiving her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Marquette University School of Dentistry, she has completed numerous hours of continuing education courses to grow and refine her skill set. For more ways to stop bad breath, visit Dr. Ton’s website or call (972) 698-5988.